World Bank presents roadmap for tourism development in Azerbaijan

The World Bank (WB) has introduced a roadmap containing recommendations to accelerate the development of Azerbaijan's tourism sector and support economic diversification, according to Rolande Pryce, WB Regional Director for the South Caucasus, Report informs.

Speaking at the event, Unlocking Azerbaijan's Tourism Potential for Economic Growth and Diversification, in Baku, the director emphasized that the next stage of Azerbaijan's tourism development requires a shift from a model centered mainly on Baku and event tourism to a more diversified approach that highlights the economic potential of the regions.

"Tourism destinations must be better managed, transport accessibility to regions improved, accommodation and services expanded outside the capital, local entrepreneurs supported, investments in workforce training increased, and air connectivity and access to international markets further developed," she said.

Tourism, Pryce added, is not only about attracting more visitors but also about creating new opportunities for local businesses, encouraging investment, boosting employment – especially for women and youth – and ensuring more balanced distribution of economic growth benefits across regions.

She underlined that a strong tourism ecosystem can stimulate growth in transport, hospitality, agriculture, retail, and small and medium enterprises.

"The Azerbaijani government has already identified tourism as a strategic priority. The next major task is to turn these plans into concrete investment projects, strengthen cooperation between the public and private sectors, and enhance the competitiveness of regions in the international tourism market," the official noted.